Thomas Rivier, New Régnié Organic & Natural

Taking over from his mother in 2019, Thomas Rivier is determined to produce authentic, vibrant wines. That is why he decided to convert the estate to organic farming straight away. His first attempt in 2018 proved highly successful, resulting in a delicious micro-cuvée: Tomix was born. His first full vintage, 2019, is stunning in its precision and freshness. As for the 2020 vintage, it is shaping up to be even more dazzling in the vats. Here is a budding winemaker who will soon be making a name for himself in the small world of natural wine.

Family history in Régnié

The vineyard is relatively new, having been taken over in 2007 by Claire (Thomas’s mother). According to family tradition, the property has been in the family for as long as anyone can remember. Traces of a Roman villa have been found on the estate (it was the Romans who first planted vines in the Beaujolais region). The family estate’s archives date back to the 15th century. The property has been passed down, through marriage and inheritance, without interruption since the 18th century. During the Revolution, Alexandre d’Aigueperse sold his wine in Paris.

Thomas Rivier, in the vineyard and in the cellar

Thomas Rivier’s vineyard is situated entirely within the geographical area of the Régnié Protected Designation of Origin. The sole grape variety is Gamay noir à jus blanc, which originated in Burgundy and has flourished in the terroirs of the Beaujolais. The vines benefit from one of the finest terroirs in the Régnié Cru. They cover an area of 3.5 hectares. The terrain consists mainly of gently sloping hillsides, facing east at the foot of the imposing church. The latter, with its two bell towers, has become the emblem of the Régnié Cru.

The soils consist mainly of granitic sand, which is fairly sandy and light, and rich in minerals. Most of the vines, which are over 50 years old, yield low harvests (around 40 hl/ha). They produce high-quality grapes in small-berried bunches. Thomas Rivier began converting his estate to organic farming in 2019. Previously, the estate was managed by his mother Claire in a very sustainable manner.

Régnié, the Beaujolais wine with two church towers

A few photos of the Thomas Rivier estate

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